A/C Gage set - can tap seal, missing

[torqueman2002]

I worked on my kid's Equinox A/C system today.

Wouldn't you know, when I removed the R134a 12oz can from the tap, the little rubber seal went missing.

I suppose I can replace the tap with another one of the same style, or maybe one like this.

But - there must be a way to find a replacement seal. Or make one.

Any ideas for what material to use?

Thanks.

 

[pipsters]

I use the second one pictured. Easy to use, works, cheap, $7 or so.

 

[IFMJohn]

I've never seen that first design to be honest. If it is just an o-ring, go to the auto parts store and find someone who knows what he is talking about. S/He will be able to get you an individual O-Ring (compatible with R134a) out of their commercial parts section for a few pennies.

 

[torqueman2002]

I've never seen that first design to be honest. If it is just an o-ring, go to the auto parts store and find someone who knows what he is talking about. S/He will be able to get you an individual O-Ring (compatible with R134a) out of their commercial parts section for a few pennies.

That's the way I'm thinking.

I found a pic of one with the seal - it's more like a short squishy tube.

I might try a piece of hose to match can shape.

 

[gungatim]

never used that particular style, but all of the myriad hoses and adapters I have all use the same seal. go to the parts store and pickup the cheapest can tap/adapter/whatever that has a seal and pop it out. I don't think an O-ring will work, they are pretty thick and have a small ID for the needle valve to seal.

 

[rlitman]

The seal looks like it is the same as in a schrader valve (the seal on your gauges).

edit: Found what I was talking about:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008HOWHUM/?tag=atomicindus08-20
or
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000P6WMLO/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Zeroek]

I have an EZ tap and it works great. Just have to make sure you are going to use the whole can because it puts a hole in the side of it.

 

[rlitman]

I have an EZ tap and it works great. Just have to make sure you are going to use the whole can because it puts a hole in the side of it.

The other style tap that threads onto the top of the can is no better in this regard. It also punches a hole. The only difference is that it uses the pin that punches the hole as a needle valve, so you can close the hole to temporarily take the tap off your line. The can will empty itself eventually though, once opened. The needle seal is not that great.

If the threads on the can are damaged, then a side tap is the only way to tap the can.

 

[m4rkz0r]

That happens all the damn time! I hate that seal. I bought a set of replacement seals from the Cornwell tools truck that comes by the shop. The replacement seals are Mastercool (my can tap is, I think made by FJC, but they're the same seal), part number is 85532-10 it comes in a 10 pack.

 

[bonneyman]

The seal looks like it is the same as in a schrader valve (the seal on your gauges).

edit: Found what I was talking about:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008HOWHUM/?tag=atomicindus08-20
or
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000P6WMLO/?tag=atomicindus08-20

That's what you need. Just be sure to get one made for use with R-134A. The new refrigerants require special polymer seals. The newer gas /oil will dissolve old neoprene or R12 seals.
I have a bag of old stuff I keep for keeping up my gauges. I'd just send you one if I had one for R134A.

 

[torqueman2002]

The seal looks like it is the same as in a schrader valve (the seal on your gauges).

edit: Found what I was talking about:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008HOWHUM/?tag=atomicindus08-20
or
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000P6WMLO/?tag=atomicindus08-20

That's it! Thanks.

Price: $10.39 & FREE SHIPPING

and
Price: $10.04 & FREE SHIPPING w/ Prime

 

[torqueman2002]

I have the set of 6 on it's way from Amazon.

BTW - Guess what I almost knelt on, while jacking up the car for a brake job! (yes, same car - found it needed tires, brakes, AND it has a coolant leak )
Yup, right there almost in the flower bed - the blasted seal!

 

[rlitman]

Don't sweat it. There's a reason these are sold in 6 packs. They wear out. Not a big issue on can taps, but when you remove your hoses, and cold liquid can make these seals crack. Having a few extra around is a good thing.